The management of Al-Hilal Saudi Club, headed by Fahd bin Nafel, has placed the right-back of Al-Ettifaq Club, Radi Al-Otaibi , in its technical calculations as a second and strategic option to strengthen the right flank of the team, in anticipation of the failure of the negotiations currently underway with Al-Qadisiyah Club player, Muhammad Abu Al-Shamat, during the current transfer period.
Al-Hilal's management is keen to finalize the right-back position reinforcement early, to avoid any complications that might arise during negotiations with Al-Qadisiyah, especially given the clubs' reluctance to release their star local players. This move comes at the recommendation of the coaching staff, who emphasize the need to bolster the squad with experienced and technically gifted local players who can make a significant impact immediately upon entering the game.
Al-Hilal's strategy and multiple options
This calculated move comes within the framework of Al-Hilal's administrative and technical policy, which relies on having multiple alternatives (Plan B) for every position requiring reinforcement, ensuring the team's technical needs are met before the upcoming competitions. The Al-Hilal management understands that relying on a single option in the transfer market could put the club under time pressure and lead to bidding wars. Therefore, having a name like Radi Al-Otaibi on the roster gives Al-Hilal's negotiators greater flexibility in managing the transfers.
The importance of local support and the challenges of the season
These moves are of paramount importance given the overall context of the competitions Al-Hilal is participating in. As the league champion and the standard-bearer of Saudi football in continental and international tournaments, the Blue team is facing a long and demanding season that includes participation in the Roshan Professional League, the King's Cup, the AFC Champions League, and, most importantly, the FIFA Club World Cup.
This high volume of matches necessitates a strong bench and squad depth, particularly in the wing positions, which demand high physical exertion in modern playing styles. According to the regulations of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, local players are a cornerstone of Saudi club rosters, making the competition to acquire top local talents, such as Abu Shamat or Al-Otaibi, vital to maintaining domestic dominance and continental competitiveness.
Players' technical background
Radhi Al-Otaibi possesses considerable experience in the Saudi League from his time with Al-Ettifaq, making him a readily available option for Al-Hilal's system without requiring a lengthy adaptation period. Meanwhile, Mohammed Abu Shamat is a rising young talent who has delivered impressive performances with Al-Qadisiyah, attracting the attention of top clubs. These moves underscore Al-Hilal's desire to maintain the team's quality and avoid any weaknesses that could hinder their pursuit of titles.
